1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 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. Both 1996 Hyundai Sonata and 2003 Lotus Elise are equipped with a 1,796 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 510 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. 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, 2003 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
Model | Sonata | Elise |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 121 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |