2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 62 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2006 Lexus IS 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 2006 Lexus IS. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lexus IS. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2006 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2006 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
