2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 20 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (104 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
