1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Hyundai Tucson
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 12 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 2,648 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Tucson.
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, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Hyundai Tucson | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Tucson |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2648 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 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 | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
