2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 624 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 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | E | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2604 cc | 2201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 425 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |