1962 Austin A 99 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin A 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin A 99 would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Austin A 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 99. (110 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 99.
Because 1962 Austin A 99 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 1962 Austin A 99. 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, 1962 Austin A 99 (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1962 Austin A 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1962 Austin A 99 has manual transmission. 1962 Austin A 99 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin A 99 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | A 99 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 46 L |
