2006 Acura RL vs. 1997 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2006 Acura RL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Acura RL weights approximately 318 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Acura RL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Acura RL | 1997 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Acura | Hyundai |
| Model | RL | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
