2009 Honda Civic vs. 1998 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,204 cc, 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 123 kg more than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1998 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2204 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
