2008 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 316. 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, 2008 BMW 316 (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
