2007 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 33 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | IS |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 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 | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1400 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 Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
