2012 Chevrolet Sonic vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am 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. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Sonic | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2012 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1800 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 69 L |