1984 Honda Civic vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Honda Civic 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 34 more horse power than 1984 Honda Civic. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1984 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 420 kg more than 1984 Honda Civic. 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Honda Civic. (131 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Honda Civic. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1984 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1984 Honda Civic 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:
| 1984 Honda Civic | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Honda | Chevrolet |
| Model | Civic | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1735 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 46 L |
