2009 Acura RL vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 206 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 2009 Acura RL 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, 2009 Acura RL 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RL. (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RL. 2009 Acura RL 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. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Acura | Hyundai |
| Model | RL | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 70 L |
