1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 81 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 397 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Jetta | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1262 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 46 L |
