1998 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 1998 BMW 325. 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, 1998 BMW 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 325 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
