1999 Kia Sportage vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1999 Kia Sportage. (126 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Sportage weights approximately 23 kg more than 2012 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1999 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Sportage 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Sportage. (175 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Sportage. 2012 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1999 Kia Sportage has manual transmission. 1999 Kia Sportage will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Sportage | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Kia | Hyundai |
| Model | Sportage | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2794 mm |
