1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Lexus GS
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (246 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 480 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 2009 Lexus GS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Lexus GS (294 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | GS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
