2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 191 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
Because 2008 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2008 Lexus IS 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. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Sonata | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
