1996 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1104 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.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. 2009 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Pontiac Sunfire | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunfire | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 2310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |