1992 Pontiac Sunbird vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Pontiac Sunbird would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. (111 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 490 kg more than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. (252 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. 2011 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1992 Pontiac Sunbird has manual transmission. 1992 Pontiac Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Pontiac Sunbird | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Pontiac | Nissan |
| Model | Sunbird | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2776 mm |
