2003 BMW 530 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 2003 BMW 530. 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, 2003 BMW 530 (501 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2003 BMW 530 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. 2003 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 530 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 530 | Sonic |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 501 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.5 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |