1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | Z3 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 67 L |
