1997 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1997 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (242 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Laurel | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
| Model | Laurel | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2794 mm |
