2003 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 46 L |
