1997 Maserati Shamal vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Maserati Shamal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Maserati Shamal would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Maserati Shamal (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (190 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1997 Maserati Shamal 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 1997 Maserati Shamal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (242 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. 2012 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 Maserati Shamal has manual transmission. 1997 Maserati Shamal will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Maserati Shamal | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Maserati | Hyundai |
| Model | Shamal | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3217 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 444 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2794 mm |
