2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota RAV4 (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 112 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.
Because 1997 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Hyundai Elantra (236 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (173 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota RAV4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Elantra | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
