1981 Honda Accord vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord 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 58 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (80 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Accord | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Honda | Chevrolet |
| Model | Accord | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1602 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 46 L |
