Pontiacs have competed in organized drag racing since the sport's infancy, but the arrival of the Sport Compact classes presented a new challenge. The racing Sunfire is powered by a race-prepared version of the Ecotec 2.2-liter, four-cylinder engine that sends its power to the pavement through the front tires. The Ecotec is an advanced engine that is available in production Sunfires and a variety of GM vehicles worldwide. In showroom trim, the Ecotec engine produces 140 horsepower; the racing version tops 1,000 horsepower. A Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission handles the Ecotec's considerable torque.
