2008 BMW X3 vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 7 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 232 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.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | X3 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 210 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1586 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 76 L |