1987 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Riviera (150 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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, 1987 Buick Riviera (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 1987 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Buick Riviera | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
Model | Riviera | Sonic |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2525 mm |