The Hyundai Elantra N Almost Beat the Civic Type R in a Race

Hyundai has been building a reputation for itself with its N performance brand, and the Elantra N is a prime example of what the brand is capable of. This model offers a lot of power for its price, putting it in direct competition with cars like the Honda Civic Type R, which may be more powerful but also comes with a higher price tag. The Elantra N surprises with its turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, all of which is delivered to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, just like the Civic. However, the Honda has a slight edge with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 315 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.

In a recent drag race conducted by Edmunds Cars, the Elantra N managed to get off the line first in the first race compared to the Honda Civic Type R. However, the Civic quickly caught up and ultimately pulled away, showcasing its superior power and performance. The results were consistent in the second race, with the Civic proving to be the quicker of the two cars. The Honda reached 60 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds, 0.2 seconds quicker than the Hyundai, and completed the quarter-mile 0.3 seconds faster at 14.0 seconds. Additionally, the Civic outgripped the Elantra in the turn, pulling 1.34 g versus 1.31 g. These small advantages allowed the Type R to finish the U-drag race in 37.8 seconds at 118.8 mph, while the Elantra N crossed the finish line in 38.6 seconds at 114.8 mph.

The comparison between the Elantra N and the Civic Type R highlights the performance capabilities of both vehicles. While the Elantra N offers a strong performance for its price, the Honda Civic Type R proves to be a more powerful and faster option. The Type R’s extra power and performance translated into quicker acceleration and better handling, giving it a clear advantage over the N in Edmunds’ drag race. The Civic’s ability to reach higher speeds faster and handle corners more effectively demonstrates its superior performance capabilities compared to the Elantra.

Despite the Elantra N not being able to keep up with the Civic Type R in terms of performance, it still offers a compelling package at a more affordable price point. The Hyundai’s combination of power, handling, and overall driving experience makes it a strong contender in its segment. For car enthusiasts looking for a balance between performance and affordability, the Elantra N presents a viable option that delivers a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. While the Civic Type R may offer superior performance, the Elantra N provides a more accessible entry point for drivers looking to experience the thrill of a sporty compact sedan.

In conclusion, the comparison between the Hyundai Elantra N and the Honda Civic Type R showcases the unique strengths and qualities of each vehicle within the compact sedan segment. While the Civic Type R is the clear winner in terms of performance and speed, the Elantra N presents a strong contender that delivers a thrilling driving experience at a more affordable price. Both models offer impressive features and capabilities, catering to different preferences and priorities for drivers looking for a sporty compact sedan. Ultimately, the choice between the Elantra N and the Civic Type R will depend on individual preferences for performance, price, and overall driving experience. Each model has its own unique strengths, making them both attractive options in their respective ways.