2002 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Sunfire 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 33 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 38 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunfire | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
