2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 56 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS.
Because 2012 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
