1999 BMW 330 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1999 BMW 330 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 1999 BMW 330. 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, 1999 BMW 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 330 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.3 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
