2005 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (198 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 144 kg more than 2012 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (249 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
| Model | Maxima | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
