2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 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 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (203 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
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 | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |