1997 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 264 kg more than 1997 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunfire | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
