2001 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (242 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 522 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Sonata | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
