2003 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 172 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Elantra.

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 Sonata (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. 2008 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2003 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2003 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Hyundai Sonata 2008 Hyundai Elantra
Make Hyundai Hyundai
Model Sonata Elantra
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 1599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 0 HP
Torque 180 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83.3 mm 77.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.7:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1425 kg 1253 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1590 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 55 L


 

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