Pontiac Repair: 1997 Pontiac Sunfire 2.2L Engine Noises, 1997 pontiac sunfire, pontiac sunfire

Question
Once I start the car, there is a loud clicking noise that continues when the car is running.  It speeds up when I accelerate and shift gears of the car, and it dies down some when I shift into a higher gear.  The noise clicks once after the engine is shut off. I'd like to know what the problem is, if the car safe to drive, and is it a serious problem?  

Answer
anytime there is a strenge noiuse or sound that doesnt feel or sound right its best to follow your own common sence.. this sounds more like a lifter or rocker arm, again this is a guess,, heheh my x ray vison wont work well at long distance, but never less all jokes aside,,check the oil level..and maybe let your local trusted mechanic hear it , it will prob be easy to find.. or take a stethescope and while running see if you can find the loudest point to give you an indication weather its on top of the motor or bottom end , it might be something sinple as well  good luck