2009 Honda Civic vs. 1997 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,799 cc, 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 67 kg more than 2009 Honda Civic.
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, 2009 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1997 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1193 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
