2001 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2001 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 2001 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2003 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 318 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
