2009 BMW 120 vs. 1989 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1989 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 120 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
