2008 Chevrolet Impala 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 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 3,506 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2008 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Impala | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 46 L |
