2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2000 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 81 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2000 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
