2005 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1971 Subaru R-2
To start off, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 800 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 1971 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Pontiac Sunfire | 1971 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Subaru |
| Model | Sunfire | R-2 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1930 mm |
