2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 416 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 203 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |