2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1998 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Subaru Impreza 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 49 more horse power than 1998 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1998 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 174 kg more than 1998 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Subaru Impreza 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Subaru Impreza. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1998 Subaru Impreza has manual transmission. 1998 Subaru Impreza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1998 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Hyundai | Subaru |
| Model | Elantra | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1144 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
