2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 1 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 290 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.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan 350Z | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
Model | 350Z | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3490 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 265 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 363 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |