1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (234 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 596 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 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:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | Z3 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 234 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 797 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 67 L |
