2009 Hyundai Tucson vs. 1996 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,648 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Tucson.
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 Tucson (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. 2009 Hyundai Tucson has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Tucson will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Tucson | 1996 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2648 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
