1988 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1999 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 316 (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1999 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316. 1999 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 1999 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 316 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
