2006 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2010 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 59 kg more than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. 2010 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2006 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2006 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Elantra | 2010 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1509 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4798 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
