1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 217 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1976 Chevrolet Nova 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 1976 Chevrolet Nova. 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, 1976 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2685 mm |
