2006 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS 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 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 4 kg more than 2006 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lexus IS. 2010 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2006 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2006 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS 2010 Hyundai Sonata
Make Lexus Hyundai
Model IS Sonata
Year Released 2006 2010
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1988 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 153 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 195 Nm 221 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1509 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4798 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1831 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2728 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 67 L