2002 Hyundai Equus vs. 1997 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Equus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Equus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Equus (220 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Equus should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Equus weights approximately 730 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Hyundai Equus 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 2002 Hyundai Equus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2002 Hyundai Equus (380 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Equus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Equus | 1997 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Equus | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
