1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2002 Hyundai Equus
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Equus is newer by 6 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Equus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Equus (220 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Equus should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Equus weights approximately 730 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.
Because 2002 Hyundai Equus 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 2002 Hyundai Equus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2002 Hyundai Equus (380 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Equus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2002 Hyundai Equus | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Equus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3090 mm |
