2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
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 (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Elantra | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
