1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2012 Kia Sportage 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Sportage (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Sportage weights approximately 185 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.
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 Kia Sportage (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Kia Sportage | |
Make | Hyundai | Kia |
Model | Sonata | Sportage |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1854 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1636 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |