2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 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 30 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3.
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, 2005 Mazda 3 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 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:
2005 Mazda 3 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | 3 | Sonic |
Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 225 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |