1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2011 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Hyundai | BMW |
| Model | Sonata | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
