2009 Nissan Sentra vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2009 Nissan Sentra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 236 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Nissan Sentra | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
Model | Sentra | Sunfire |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |