1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Hyundai i20
To start off, 2012 Hyundai i20 is newer by 16 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai i20 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai i20 should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 34 kg more than 2012 Hyundai i20.
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, 2012 Hyundai i20 (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai i20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Hyundai i20 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | i20 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2525 mm |
