1990 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 71 kg more than 1990 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 525 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 525 | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 525 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
