1999 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. Both 1999 Hyundai Sonata and 2005 Lotus Elise are equipped with a 1,796 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 364 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (187 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. 1999 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2005 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2005 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Elise |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
