1998 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 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 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 320 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
