2007 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 17 kg more than 2007 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Elantra | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
