2002 Honda Accord vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda Accord 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 39 more horse power than 2002 Honda Accord. (159 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 42 kg more than 2002 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Accord. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Accord. 2002 Honda Accord has automatic transmission and 2012 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Accord | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Accord | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
