1999 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier 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:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 46 L |
