1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 19 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Mustang 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 1988 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Mustang | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Mustang | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2685 mm |
