2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 300 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | BMW |
| Model | Sonata | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
