1953 Austin A 40 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 286 kg more than 1953 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Austin A 40 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1953 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin A 40 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | A 40 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 46 L |
