1997 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 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, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 420 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.
Because 2008 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Sunfire | 2008 BMW 320 | |
Make | Pontiac | BMW |
Model | Sunfire | 320 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2200 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |