2003 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2003 Oldsmobile Alero.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 2008 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2008 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2008 Pontiac Solstice will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Oldsmobile Alero | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Pontiac |
| Model | Alero | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 49 L |
