1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 300 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, 2008 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Hyundai | Opel |
| Model | Sonata | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 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 | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
