2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,475 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 459 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1995 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2475 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1554 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |