1996 Buick Riviera vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 501 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.
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, 1996 Buick Riviera (312 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 1996 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Buick Riviera | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Buick | Pontiac |
Model | Riviera | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 202 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 312 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2740 mm |