2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 426 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
