1995 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 298 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3 (228 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (176 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1995 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Pontiac Sunfire | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
| Model | Sunfire | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1383 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
