2009 BMW 550 vs. 1997 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,495 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1997 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 550 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
