2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Hyundai Lantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Lantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Lantra would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. (112 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 570 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. 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 Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. (141 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Lantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Hyundai Lantra | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Lantra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 30 L |
