2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2012 Kia Carens
To start off, 2012 Kia Carens is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Carens (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2012 Kia Carens (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Kia Carens | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Elantra | Carens |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
