1980 Lada Niva vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lada Niva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lada Niva 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 62 more horse power than 1980 Lada Niva. (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1980 Lada Niva.
Because 1980 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lada Niva | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Lada | Chevrolet |
| Model | Niva | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1452 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 46 L |
