1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 240 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Elan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
