1996 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 278 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Pontiac Sunfire | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
Model | Sunfire | MazdaSpeed3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2201 cc | 2300 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 379 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1484 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4511 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |