1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2007 Kia Rio
To start off, 2007 Kia Rio is newer by 10 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Rio (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 213 kg more than 2007 Kia Rio.
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, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2007 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | Rio |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 6500 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 | 1047 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
