2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1995 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
