2012 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2004 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2004 Toyota Corolla. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 424 kg more than 2004 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Corolla. (128 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Corolla. 2004 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 2012 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Hyundai Sonata | 2004 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4821 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1834 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2794 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
