1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2010 BMW Z4
To start off, 2010 BMW Z4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW Z4 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW Z4 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 2010 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2010 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2010 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Hyundai | BMW |
| Model | Sonata | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2497 mm |
