1998 BMW 729 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 729. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 729 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 729 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 BMW 729. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 729.

Because 1998 BMW 729 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 729. 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, 1998 BMW 729 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 729 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Sonata.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 729 2012 Hyundai Sonata
Make BMW Hyundai
Model 729 Sonata
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 198 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 410 Nm 249 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel 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 5130 mm 4821 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1834 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2794 mm