1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 8 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 3,473 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe (203 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 435 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe (297 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
