2001 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1976 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 142 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler Centura 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 1976 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler Centura. 1976 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | 1976 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chrysler |
| Model | Sunfire | Centura |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1257 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
