2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta 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 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fiesta (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 63 kg more than 2009 Ford Fiesta.
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, 2009 Ford Fiesta (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Fiesta | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1137 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
