2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 372 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | E | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
