1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 420 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2525 mm |
