1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
Model | 300 | Sonic |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2525 mm |