2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 83 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (210 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
