American coolness - 2004 Pontiac Sunfire coupe
Fun, fast and unique, the Sunfire continues to build on its youth-oriented image. Carrying on the tradition of a sporty, aerodynamic design with a high level of standard equipment, the Sunfire coupe is built by General Motors in Lordstown, Ohio, and Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, alongside its mechanical twin, the Chevrolet Cavalier. A sedan is not offered.
In 2003, exterior sheetmetal was freshened resulting in a new aggressive front look. In addition, the Ecotec 2.2L four-cylinder mill became the standard powerplant. The engine's quiet operation is achieved by using twin balance shafts located in the cylinder block. These cancel the shaking forces inherent in an inline four-cylinder engine resulting in a smooth engine from idle to redline.
A die-cast lower crankcase and structural cast-aluminum oil pan adds strength to the block and reduces radiated engine noise. An isolated cam cover reduces the transmittal of valve train noise.
The standard gearbox is a Getrag five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional.
On the road, the Sunfire delivers a solid performance. Power is good and handling is predictable. The suspension hardware includes front independent deflected-disc MacPherson struts and anti-roll bar and semi-independent trailing tubular control arms with twist beam, coil springs and an anti-roll bar in the rear. Tires include P195/65R15 for touring or P205/55R16 for performance. The standard rear spoiler on the coupe adds a sporty appearance to the overall package.
Inside the cabin, well placed displays and controls face the driver. New for 2004 is the availability of a CD/MP3 player with equalizer and Radio Data System. The driver enjoys good outward visibility. The seats are comfortable, with a nice center armrest. Switches for the power windows are located in the center console. A huge glovebox makes up for the lack of cubbyholes.
In the rear seating area, the 60/40 split, fold-down rear seat back makes the most of the small trunk. The back seat is snug, but comfortable for two adults. Dual cupholders for the rear seat passengers make it more hospitable for extended periods.
Quick vehicle stats
2004 Pontiac Sunfire coupe
Wheelbase: 104.1; overall length: 182.0; width: 68.4; height: 53.0 -- measurements in inches
Engine: 2.2L Ecotec four-cylinder -- 140 hp at 5,600 rpm and 150 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm
Transmission: Getrag F23 five-speed manual; Hydra-Matic 4T45-E four-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy: 24 city/33 hwy., (manual); 23 city/32 hwy., (automatic)
Trunk capacity: 12.4 cubic feet
Safety equipment
Dual front airbags, four-wheel anti lock brakes, battery rundown protection, PASSLock theft-deterrent system, fog lamps, low speed traction control (when equipped with the optional four-speed automatic transmission), side impact door beams and daytime running lights
Optional safety/ security equipment includes front-seat mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, remote keyless entry and OnStar Communications.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper
Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile
Pricing
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire coupe begins at $14,930 for the 1SA Base coupe, $16,085 for the 1SB Mid-Level coupe and $18,545 for the 1SC Up-Level coupe. Destination charge adds $565.
As tested
2004 Pontiac Sunfire coupe
Exterior color: Victory red
Interior color: Graphite
Base price $14,930
Destination charge $ 565
Up-Level 1SC package $ 3,050
OnStar Safe & Sound package $ 775
Power package $ 430
Package discount ($ 555)
Total as tested $19,195
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