2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1995 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,358 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1995 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1995 Lotus Elan.
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 Sonata (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1995 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
