1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe (255 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
