1998 Hyundai Elantra Review
1998 Hyundai Elantra Review

Used Elantra for sale
Appraise This CarHyundai Elantra model years
Hyundai Elantra types
- Sedan
- Wagon
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Tight, well-built, and surprisingly zippy, the Elantra is a compact worth considering.
Cons
- Interior fabrics are nasty.
What’s new
No changes to the Elantra for 1998.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1998 Hyundai Elantra 4dr Wagon and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.11 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$161/mo for Elantra Base
Elantra Base
vs
$168/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
The Excel is long dead, and it's time to stop thinking of Hyundai as a second-rate automobile manufacturer. Several years ago, the Accent and Sonata provided a strong hint that this South Korean automaker was finally learning how to build a good car. This Elantra provides the proof. Larger and more powerful than the first-generation Elantra, this car offers quite a bit of bang for your buck in either sedan or wagon bodystyles.
Under the hood is a 130-horsepower 1.8-liter Hyundai-designed Beta engine, which produces 90 percent of its torque at 2,300 rpm, resulting in snappy around town performance. Riding on a four-wheel independent suspension, the Elantra features a longer wheelbase and wider track than the original model, which contributes to smoother, more stable handling. A speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering system communicates improved road feel to the driver. GLS models can be ordered with four-channel antilock brakes, which read each wheel separately.
Dual airbags are standard on the Elantra, housed in a two-piece dashboard designed to reduce squeaks and rattles. Adjustable headrests and seatbelt anchors are standard, and all models come with driver's side lumbar support and seat height adjustments. GLS models get a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Extensive use of sound deadening materials helps quiet this compact car.
Base price for a five-speed sedan is $11,499. This price includes five-mph bumpers, rear window defroster, dual remote control mirrors, rear seat heat ducts, remote fuel and trunk releases, tilt steering and speed-sensitive steering. Another $2,100 nets buyers a GLS model with a cassette stereo, power door locks, power outside mirrors, six-way adjustable driver's seat, split fold rear seat, power windows, four-wheel disc brakes and performance-oriented tires. Option Packages can add air conditioning, cruise control, and antilock brakes for less than $1,600.
Good value? Let's take a look. A Civic LX sedan equipped with air conditioning, automatic, and antilock brakes runs about $16,500. A similarly equipped Dodge Neon Highline comes in around $15,000, including ABS. A sporty Pontiac Sunfire SE sedan with a powerful 2.4-liter engine stickers near $16,000 and includes traction control. A fully loaded Kia Sephia GS will cost $13,500.
The Hyundai Elantra is much improved over its predecessor. But like other Hyundai products, once a few options are added, the value disappears. The Pontiac offers superior content, the Dodge superior performance, the Honda a better reputation, and the Kia better value. If Hyundai had priced the Elantra a bit more down market, it would make a compelling choice. We like this Hyundai, but as it stands, the Elantra is likely to be passed over by most consumers, simply because of the nomenclature affixed to the decklid.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1998 Hyundai Elantra.
5 star(23%)
4 star(58%)
3 star(13%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(2%)
48 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
1.88 out of 5 stars
I will never purchase another Hyundai!
UNHAPPY, 09/01/2002
1997 Hyundai Elantra GLS 4dr Wagon
I would not recommend this car to even
my worst enemy. The transmission has
failed twice. All of the paint
(original paint) is chipping off. It
makes horrible banging noises when
turning and no mechanic (not even
Hyundai dealer mechanics)can figure out
why. The steering column shakes
(another "feature" thank no one can
seem to fix). We have done all we can
to no … avail. I will never EVER buy
another.
3.25 out of 5 stars
Very reliable
supgamer, 07/16/2012
1998 Hyundai Elantra 4dr Wagon
I bought this Elantra with 76,000 mi. , now I have 172,000 mi. on it. I don't know if the first owner did all the fixing, but this car has been very reliable to me.
I use this car for long distance deliveries (courier), therefore, most of the mileage have been highway.
Besides regular maintenance (tires, fluids, brakes, tune up, etc), I had to change the crank shaft position sensor, … slave cilinder, clutch, the AC fun that was out of balance and making noise, driver's inside door handle (switched with the same side back door, fits perfectly), did change the timming belt and water and that's it. My only complaint are the air vents that are very delicate (all broken).
Love this car!!!
5 out of 5 stars
Best car I've ever had
elalove, 04/14/2012
1997 Hyundai Elantra 4dr Sedan
I've owned my 1997 hyundai for 5 years-- I bought it with 116, 000kms on it and it's at 270, 000 kms right now I originally paid 2500$ for it. This car is manual and I replaced the clutch in the first year because I was a new driver and I burnt it out and it only cost me 600$. In the winter I get through heavy snow that trucks can't even get through. Everyone who calls this car the … little tug that could or a trooper is RIGHT! This is the most reliable, sweetest little car of all time. I'm SO SO SO depressed that my baby is at the end of it's life. in 5 years I've had ZERO engine repairs (it's a 15 year old car). I adore this thing!
4.38 out of 5 stars
fun little car
mike, 09/14/2005
1997 Hyundai Elantra GLS 4dr Sedan
I bought this car with the idea of getting a couple of years work out of it. I've now owned it 4 1/2 years and 140,000 miles later i plan to keep it until it breathes it's last breath. The car had 20k on it when I bought it. I took it down and had all engine/trans fluids changed to Mobil 1. A great ride, precise handling and enough power to make this car a joy to own. I am teaching my … daughter to drive and now she wants one like mine. I think I'll buy her a 2000 Elantra so I will have the warranty. The only problem I've had is a switch in the auto tranny. After that was fixed , no problems. I average 33 mpg hiway and 28 city.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 Hyundai Elantra, so we've included reviews for other years of the Elantra since its last redesign.
1998 Elantra Highlights
Sedan
GLS
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $158/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 11.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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