1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 17 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 367 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Elise |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2310 mm |
