2002 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2002 BMW M3 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 2002 BMW M3. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2002 BMW M3 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. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 46 L |
