2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Lexus LS
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus LS would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus LS (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus LS weights approximately 184 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 Lexus LS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Lexus LS (418 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. 2003 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | LS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 418 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2930 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 84 L |
