1986 Austin Maestro vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Austin Maestro 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 72 more horse power than 1986 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1986 Austin Maestro.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Austin Maestro. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1986 Austin Maestro has manual transmission. 1986 Austin Maestro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Austin Maestro | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Maestro | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 46 L |
