2009 BMW 120 vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2009 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. 2003 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. 2003 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 2003 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 120 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
