2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Malibu | Sonic |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 46 L |