All but the performance editions of the Sunfire and Cavalier come standard with a 2.2-liter 4-cyl. engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. A 3-speed automatic, which was in our test car, and a 4-speed automatic (with the 2.4-liter engine) are optional. The 2.2-liter engine labors when it's mated to the 3-speed automatic. A 5-speed manual is the best choice for good performance and a sportier feel.
The base engine is rated at 120 hp. That's a little tepid compared to Chrysler's base Neon, rated at 132 hp, and the Neon Highline coupe at 150 hp. Still, the Sunfire's horsepower output is higher than the 1996 Ford Escort LX and the Saturn SC1 coupe, and its low-rpm torque is strong, and it provides a decent blend of acceleration and fuel economy.
Our only complaint with the engine in our SE coupe was a little too much noise at higher rpm.
If performance is a priority, the 2.4-liter Twin Cam 4-cyl. engine (standard in the GT and optional in SE models) is a much better choice. The 150-hp engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard in the GT; a 4-speed automatic is optional.
The Sunfire's ride is characteristic of Pontiacs, firm but not stiff. The steering, a little too light and slow to respond when first introduced, is much improved for 1996.
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