2003 BMW Z4 vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2003 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW Z4 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW Z4 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 2003 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 BMW Z4 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW Z4 | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | Z4 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
