2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 206 kg more than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (354 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan 350Z | 1995 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | 350Z | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
