1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2004 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
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, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (191 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2004 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Nissan Maxima | 2004 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
Model | Maxima | Sonata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 191 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |