1997 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. 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, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2004 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
