1996 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. 2011 Ford Explorer 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. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Pontiac | Ford |
| Model | Sunfire | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 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 Length | 4630 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2860 mm |
