2012 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 314 kg more than 2012 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Hyundai Elantra | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 4-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4486 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1765 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1519 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
