1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 78 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 421 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1981 Vauxhall Chevette has manual transmission. 1981 Vauxhall Chevette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Chevrolet |
| Model | Chevette | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1256 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 46 L |
