2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 104 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 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. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
Model | Sonata | Santa Fe |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 194 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |