2002 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2009 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Sonata. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Sonata. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
Model | Sonata | Highlander |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3456 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 336 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 73 L |