2002 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1981 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 Toyota Carina.
Because 1981 Toyota Carina 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 1981 Toyota Carina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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. 1981 Toyota Carina has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Toyota Carina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | 1981 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Pontiac | Toyota |
| Model | Sunfire | Carina |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
