2003 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Focus 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:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Focus | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |
