1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 31 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda RX-7 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 RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-7 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2740 mm |
