2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Hyundai | BMW |
| Model | Sonata | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
