2007 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2012 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 554 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio. 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 Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2007 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2007 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | Rio |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
