1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 70 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 2008 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
Model | Sonata | Highlander |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3546 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 271 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 336 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |