1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Lexus RX
To start off, 2009 Lexus RX 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 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus RX (273 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus RX weights approximately 575 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 RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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 RX (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus RX 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 RX | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | RX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
