2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1997 Lexus ES
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Lexus ES. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 116 kg more than 1997 Lexus ES. 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, both vehicles can yield 304 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1997 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | ES |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
