1996 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 6,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix (247 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 594 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix (461 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Sunfire | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 6545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3030 mm |
