2001 Hyundai Matrix vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Matrix would be higher. At 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Matrix (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Prius. (77 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Matrix should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Prius weights approximately 10 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Matrix.
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, 2001 Hyundai Matrix (183 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (116 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius. 2008 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2001 Hyundai Matrix has manual transmission. 2001 Hyundai Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Matrix | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix | Prius |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
