2002 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 73 kg more than 2002 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunfire | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
