1971 Chevrolet Impala 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 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 456 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1971 Chevrolet Impala 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 Chevrolet Impala. 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 Chevrolet Impala (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Impala | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Impala | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1259 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2525 mm |
