1988 BMW 530 vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2003 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 168 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1988 BMW 530 (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 530 2003 Hyundai Sonata
Make BMW Hyundai
Model 530 Sonata
Year Released 1988 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 188 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 261 Nm 180 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 83.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 95 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1593 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1590 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2710 mm