1984 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 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 50 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316. 1984 BMW 316 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. 1984 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1984 BMW 316 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 316 | Sonic |
Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |