1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire (140 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 270 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 323 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 140 HP |
Torque | 104 Nm | 203 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |