1971 Austin 3 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 253 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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, 1971 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1237 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 46 L |
