2001 Cadillac Catera vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Cadillac Catera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Cadillac Catera would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Cadillac Catera (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.

Because 2001 Cadillac Catera 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 2001 Cadillac Catera. 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, 2001 Cadillac Catera (260 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2001 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Cadillac Catera 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
Make Cadillac Chevrolet
Model Catera Sonic
Year Released 2001 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 260 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 46 L