1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (200 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 895 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 Volvo XC90 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
