1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2010 Honda Element
To start off, 2010 Honda Element is newer by 13 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Honda Element weights approximately 372 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, 2010 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2010 Honda Element | |
| Make | Hyundai | Honda |
| Model | Sonata | Element |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4328 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1819 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1765 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2576 mm |
