2006 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | 350Z | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1800 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 46 L |
