1957 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 3,860 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Because 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 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 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air (277 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Bel Air | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3860 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
