2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. 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 RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1995 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2392 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |