1978 Buick Regal vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal.
Because 1978 Buick Regal 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 1978 Buick Regal. 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, 1978 Buick Regal (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Regal | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | Regal | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
