1983 Ford Fairlane vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (131 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1983 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fairlane | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Fairlane | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
