1989 BMW 518 vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1989 BMW 518 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 57 kg more than 1989 BMW 518.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 518 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
