1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 Audi S3
To start off, 2001 Audi S3 is newer by 4 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, 2001 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi S3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Audi |
| Model | Sonata | S3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
