2007 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2002 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 237 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 Hyundai Elantra (235 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Sonata. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Elantra | 2002 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
