1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 13 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 322 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 480 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 2009 Lexus IS 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 2009 Lexus IS. 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, 2009 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Lexus IS | |
Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
Model | Sonata | IS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 4969 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 416 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 503 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1700 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |