2012 Chevrolet Sonic vs. 2004 Honda Z
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Z.
Because 2004 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Z. (62 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Z. 2004 Honda Z 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. 2004 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | 2004 Honda Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Honda |
| Model | Sonic | Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4039 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1735 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1516 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2525 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 35 L |
