1993 BMW 518 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1993 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 113 kg more than 1993 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 BMW 518 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 1993 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 518. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1993 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1993 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 518 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 518 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2013 |
| 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 | 113 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2685 mm |
