2009 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima 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, 2009 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Maxima | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 46 L |
