1971 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Buick Riviera (311 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1971 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 1971 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, 1971 Buick Riviera (617 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Buick Riviera | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
Model | Riviera | Sonic |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 617 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |