1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 618 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SL | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1182 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |