2000 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 2000 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2000 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 440 kg more than 2000 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus IS 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2009 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | IS |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
