2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Lexus ES
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus ES weights approximately 87 kg more than 2005 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, 1996 Lexus ES (304 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (199 Nm). This means 1996 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | ES |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
