2001 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Sunfire 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 36 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 115 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunfire | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
