2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 626 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, 2001 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, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire (210 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 76 L |
