1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Kia SOUL
To start off, 2013 Kia SOUL is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia SOUL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia SOUL (162 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia SOUL should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 32 kg more than 2013 Kia SOUL.
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, 2013 Kia SOUL (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Kia SOUL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Kia SOUL | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | SOUL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 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 | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
