1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Hyundai i30
To start off, 2008 Hyundai i30 is newer by 11 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, 2008 Hyundai i30 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai i30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 46 kg more than 2008 Hyundai i30.
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, 2008 Hyundai i30 (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai i30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Hyundai i30 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | i30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1591 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
