1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2006 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2006 Kia Sportage is newer by 9 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sportage (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sportage weights approximately 216 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.
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, 2006 Kia Sportage (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | Sportage |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
