2012 Chevrolet Sonic vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 16 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Vibe.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonic | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 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 | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 45 L |
