1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2011 Honda Insight
To start off, 2011 Honda Insight is newer by 14 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, 2011 Honda Insight (98 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Insight should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 23 kg more than 2011 Honda Insight.
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, 2011 Honda Insight (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Insight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2011 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Hyundai | Honda |
| Model | Sonata | Insight |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1237 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
