1998 Ford Escort 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 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 416 kg more than 1998 Ford Escort. 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, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (210 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
