Purchasing a Pontiac Sunfire...good deal/choice?

Question

So after buying a 2004 Sebring LX fell through, it looks like I am getting a Sunfire.
It's got 50,000km on it, excellent condition (except a/c does not work), it's a 2004 umm...4 cylinder, 4 door sedan, silver in color.
Am going to pay $7,300 for it.
Do you guys think this is a good deal and what are your experiences with them?
I wanted a "sportier" looking car like the Sebring with tinted windows, sunroof, etc. lol. But my parents seem to think this is more economical and they're getting it, so I may as well not argue!
Thanks in advance for the thoughts/opionions!

Answer 1

I've had my '99 Sunfire for 5 years ago when it had 89k on it for 6 grand. 2.2L and as still as strong as it can be! Best car I've ever owned! I've only had to replace minor components: alternator, idle position sensor, temperature sending unit, thermostat, and front rotors (only about 20 bucks a piece). Other than that, I give it regular oil changes only using Castol High Mileage 10W30 (I have over 160k miles on it, and Castrol is what the dealership used judging from the first oil free oil change the original owner had on the paperwork in the glove compartment) and I only use Fram oil filters because with the filter being on the back side of the engine, the grip makes it easier to change, change the brakes and tires, tune-up and coolant flush at 100k miles. If it is a 2.4L, I wouldn't be so sure about it though. My Father's gf has a 2.4L '97 Cavalier, which is basically the same car, and has had more problems than I have had. 2.4L may be a bigger engine, but definitely not better. A lot of the 2.2L parts are Toyota, which explains the long life span. You can also find some awesome body and engine parts for them on the internet if you Google the j-body and Sunfire parts you're looking for. J-bodies consist of Sunfires and Cavaliers. Just check out these awesome body kits for a taste of what you can get for these awesome little cars go to http://www.audioonwheels.com/Templates/frmTemplateq.asp?SubFolderID=604&SearchYN=N Also, if you go to http://www.j-body.org you will find one of the biggest online j-body enthusiast web sites on the net!

P.S. If you can talk them into it, get a coupe ;). It looks better and is no more expensive on insurance from what I can tell!

Answer 2

The engine and transmission is rock solid and will easily go 200,000 miles. The rest of the car can be a problem..... The a/c is just the start of it. Before 100k hits, I bet it will also need new calipers, wheel bearings, and maybe a fuel pump. GM spent their time and money on the drivetrain, so the rest of the car is lacking. Still, if you don't mind some minor crap going out every now and then, it sounds like a good deal. They do get good gas mileage.

Answer 3

Yes, I like the deal. But, I'd request that the a/c work on it, also! Then, just perform the maintenance like the other said and it should last you a good while.

Personally, I'd perfer the 2 door model for the more sportier look. But that's just me. Btw, nice color option, silver;)

Good luck!

Answer 4

They are okay because you can get parts easily and repairs can be somewhat simple. On the other hand they are fairly biodegradable and the depreciation is high. They also received a Poor rating from the IIHS in the 40mph crash test. This alone would steer me away from buying a Cavalier/Sunfire.

http://www.iihs.org/ratings/rating.aspx?id=45

Answer 5

Pontiac sunfire is a good car.Good price at the miles stated. Change oil on time and rotate tires.And this car should last you a long time.

Answer 6

DUDE FOR $7,300 THE A/C SHOULD WORK. ASK YOUR IF YOU GET A JOB WILL THEY GET YOU THE SEBRING LX. GOOD LUCK.

Answer 7

Well everyone thinks that the Toyota is a nice car... right? Then the vibe is. The vibe and the Toyota matrix are sister cars. They are made out of the same plant with the same parts. You will love it!!!