1978 Renault 4 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 561 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Renault | Chevrolet |
| Model | 4 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2685 mm |
