2006 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 340 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Lexus IS (289 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 2006 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Lexus | Chevrolet |
| Model | IS | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1506 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |
