2005 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 247 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lexus IS 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 2005 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2005 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Lexus | Chevrolet |
| Model | IS | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| 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 | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1259 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |
