1979 Austin Marina vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina.
Because 1979 Austin Marina 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 1979 Austin Marina. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Austin Marina | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Marina | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
