2008 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 6 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 566 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 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, 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | X3 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 203 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 | 1765 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2740 mm |