1998 Dodge Ram vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 931 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Ram | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Ram | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2130 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2650 mm |
