2003 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Nissan Murano
To start off, 2009 Nissan Murano is newer by 6 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Murano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Murano (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Murano should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Murano weights approximately 17 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 2009 Nissan Murano (336 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Murano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Nissan Murano | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Murano |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 82 L |
