2004 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. 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, 2004 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 320 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:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
