1998 Nissan Sunny vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 486 kg more than 1998 Nissan Sunny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Sunny. (132 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Sunny. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Sunny has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Sunny will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Nissan Sunny 2008 Hyundai Sonata
Make Nissan Hyundai
Model Sunny Sonata
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1973 cc 3342 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 74 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 132 Nm 304 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1646 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1480 mm