1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 15 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (318 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 518 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 2012 Cadillac CTS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Hyundai | Cadillac |
Model | Sonata | CTS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 318 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 372 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1778 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4877 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1842 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |