2003 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Sonata (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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. 2011 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2011 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 520 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
