2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 34 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |