1998 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (186 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (249 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (181 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
