2008 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. 1999 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1999 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | M3 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1570 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
