1997 Honda Life vs. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Life. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Life would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Sonata (206 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 Honda Life. (47 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Life. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 790 kg more than 1997 Honda Life. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda Life is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda Life 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. 2011 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda Life has manual transmission. 1997 Honda Life will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Life | 2011 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Life | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2794 mm |
