1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2005 Kia Sportage 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Sportage (126 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Sportage weights approximately 282 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 2005 Kia Sportage 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, 2005 Kia Sportage 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, 2005 Kia Sportage (175 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | Sportage |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1542 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
