2008 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | 3 | Sonic |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |