1996 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 284 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Pontiac Sunfire | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunfire | Jetta |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2201 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 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 | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |