I am very embarrassed to respond because I have never stayed at the Sofitel
Everytime I want to try it, there is a good reason pushing me to the Novotel. Usually it was because the Novotel was cheaper. This time, the rates were the same globally, but I needed absolutely 2 beds in the room and for whatever reasons at the Sofitel the only room category that was bookable with 2 beds was significantly more expensive than at the Novotel.
What I can tell you is that the Novotel is a very decent place to stay, perfectly located in town.

I am going back again in NY in October for a family long WE and the rates at the 2 hotels were the same but just completely crazy (like $1300 for 3 nights ) and it was the same everywhere (Accor was even among the cheapest). I spent hours trying to find something less crazy. So for the moment I booked non-Accor (in a Mariott) for something around $1000 (still crazy, isnt'it ? ), refundable on Booking.com, hoping for an Accor super sale sometimes in September).