1997 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (242 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316. 2012 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 316 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
