1978 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,657 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 15 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 520 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Hyundai Sonata. (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Hyundai Sonata. 2007 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 2007 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 520 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
