1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 141 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 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, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-3 | 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-3 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |