1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1999 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Baleno is newer by 2 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 330 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. 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, 1999 Suzuki Baleno (171 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Baleno will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1999 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Hyundai | Suzuki |
| Model | Sonata | Baleno |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
