1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 110 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2003 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 318 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
