1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 338 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1988 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1988 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
Model | Sonata | Maxima |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2351 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 346 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2830 mm |