2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2005 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 468 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (236 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. 2005 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 2005 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
