1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40.
Because 1961 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 1961 Austin A 40. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | A 40 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 46 L |
