1982 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 375 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Rabbit | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1506 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2525 mm |
