1997 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 15 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1111 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 2012 GMC Sierra 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 2012 GMC Sierra. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. 2012 GMC Sierra 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. 2012 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Sunfire | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
Make | Pontiac | GMC |
Model | Sunfire | Sierra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2200 cc | 4800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 413 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2311 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5847 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2032 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1875 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3645 mm |