1963 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Buick Riviera (321 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1963 Buick Riviera 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 1963 Buick Riviera. 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, 1963 Buick Riviera (603 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1963 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 1963 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1963 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1963 Buick Riviera | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
Model | Riviera | Sonic |
Year Released | 1963 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 321 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 603 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 46 L |