2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | IS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
