2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (187 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 602 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2012 Toyota Highlander (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (235 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 2012 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
Model | Elantra | Highlander |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4785 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |