2003 Hyundai Tiburon vs. 1999 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Tiburon is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Tiburon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Tiburon (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Tiburon should accelerate faster than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Tiburon weights approximately 730 kg more than 1999 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, 2003 Hyundai Tiburon (180 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm). This means 2003 Hyundai Tiburon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. 1999 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2003 Hyundai Tiburon has manual transmission. 2003 Hyundai Tiburon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Tiburon | 1999 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Tiburon | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
