2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 171 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW Z4. (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Hyundai | BMW |
| Model | Sonata | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
