2008 BMW 116 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 116. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 116 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 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 116. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 116.
Because 2008 BMW 116 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 2008 BMW 116. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 116. (151 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 116.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 116 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 116 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 46 L |
