2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 558 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 Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. 2003 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Vectra | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
