1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Highlander (230 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 421 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 Toyota Highlander (314 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3309 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 314 Nm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
