1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1998 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1998 Toyota MR2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 25 kg more than 1998 Toyota MR2.
Because 1998 Toyota MR2 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 1998 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1998 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1998 Toyota MR2 | |
Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
Model | Sonata | MR2 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |