2003 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (145 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe.
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, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. 2012 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe has manual transmission. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
Model | Santa Fe | Elantra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4529 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1775 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1435 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |