1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Hyundai Tiburon
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Tiburon is newer by 12 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Tiburon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Tiburon (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Tiburon should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 195 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Tiburon.
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, 2008 Hyundai Tiburon (245 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Tiburon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Hyundai Tiburon | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Tiburon |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
