1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Toyota Yaris
To start off, 2009 Toyota Yaris 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Yaris (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Yaris should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Yaris weights approximately 70 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, 2009 Toyota Yaris (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Yaris will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Toyota Yaris | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Yaris |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 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 | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
