1984 BMW 318 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 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 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 35 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 318. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1984 BMW 318 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 318 | Sonic |
Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |