1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1997 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 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, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
Model | Sonata | Maxima |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |