2006 Honda Element 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 Honda Element. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Honda Element would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element 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 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Element | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Honda | Chevrolet |
| Model | Element | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 46 L |
