1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire

To start off, 1996 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 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 2,475 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 334 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Hyundai Sonata 1995 Pontiac Sunfire
Make Hyundai Pontiac
Model Sonata Sunfire
Year Released 1996 1995
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 2475 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 94 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4900 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 226 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1220 kg 1554 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4910 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2700 mm