1981 Honda Accord vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 32 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), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 260 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Honda | Chevrolet |
| Model | Accord | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| 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 | 79 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2525 mm |
