2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Kia Sephia
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Sephia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Sephia would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Kia Sephia. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Sephia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Kia Sephia. 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 Hyundai Elantra (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Sephia. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Sephia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Kia Sephia | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Elantra | Sephia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
