2001 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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:
2001 Pontiac Sunfire | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunfire | Golf |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 92.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |