1983 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Silvia 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 41 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Silvia.
Because 1983 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Silvia. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Nissan Silvia | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silvia | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
