1996 Volvo 460 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 460 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 56 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 460. (82 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 460.
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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 460. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 460 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 460 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 46 L |
