2003 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 407 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 320. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 320 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 234 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1058 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
