1998 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 1 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, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | 318 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |