1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 250 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 2006 Subaru Outback 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, 2006 Subaru Outback 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (229 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Hyundai | Subaru |
| Model | Sonata | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
