1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 16 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 655 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 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | BMW |
| Model | Sonata | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
