2009 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 304 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 2009 BMW 318. 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, 2009 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
