2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 266 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mercedes-Benz C 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
Make Mercedes-Benz Pontiac
Model C Sunfire
Year Released 2008 2002
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 2399 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 161 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 203 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1465 kg 1199 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2740 mm