1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW Z1 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:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z1 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2525 mm |
