2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 226 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |