2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. (104 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 299 kg more than 2001 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. 2001 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 87 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1498 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
