1997 Nissan Sentra vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
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, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra. 2011 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Sentra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Nissan Sentra | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
Model | Sentra | Elantra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 118 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 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 Length | 4290 mm | 4529 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1775 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1435 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |