1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2010 Hyundai Azera
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Azera 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 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Hyundai Azera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Azera (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Azera should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Azera weights approximately 386 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 Hyundai Azera (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Azera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2010 Hyundai Azera | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Azera |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 234 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4895 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2779 mm |
