1979 Pontiac Trans Am vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 86 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (201 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chevrolet |
| Model | Trans Am | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6555 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 104.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1506 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2525 mm |
