1996 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 966 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunfire | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 2172 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
