1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Lexus RX
To start off, 2009 Lexus RX is newer by 20 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus RX (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2009 Lexus RX 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, 2009 Lexus RX 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, 2009 Lexus RX (840 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 612 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | RX |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 840 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
