2003 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 92 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.
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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. 2003 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
