2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (307 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche 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 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche | 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Avalanche | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 307 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2650 mm |
