2002 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 9 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 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (230 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 456 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (318 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 2011 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2011 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chevrolet |
| Model | Sunfire | Impala |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2807 mm |
