2009 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 2009 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. 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, 2009 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lexus IS | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Lexus | Chevrolet |
Model | IS | Sonic |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2231 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 46 L |