2012 Chevrolet Sonic vs. 1987 Nissan Santana
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Santana 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 45 more horse power than 1987 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1987 Nissan Santana.
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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Santana. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Santana. 1987 Nissan Santana 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 Nissan Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | 1987 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Sonic | Santana |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1987 |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4039 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1735 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1516 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2525 mm | 2560 mm |
