2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 161 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, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 210 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1586 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |