2003 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 149 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (219 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Sonata | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Altima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 76 L |
