Hyundai Coupe RD
The car that proved South Korea could build a stylish, Porsche-tuned sports coupé.
- Power
- 139 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.4 s
- Top speed
- 125 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$6k
About the Hyundai Coupe RD
The first-generation Hyundai Coupe (codenamed RD) was a landmark for the brand, moving away from the boxy Scoupe into a fluid 'coke-bottle' design inspired by the HCD-II concept. Its chassis was famously tuned in collaboration with Porsche, resulting in handling that surprised contemporary critics and rivalled established European competitors. The 2.0 SE was the flagship trim in the UK, featuring leather upholstery, air conditioning, and cruise control as standard. While it lacked the badge prestige of a Celica or Prelude, its combination of striking looks and affordable performance made it a massive sales success.
Hyundai Coupe RD specs
The Hyundai Coupe RD produces 139 bhp (104 kW) and 182 Nm (134 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.4 seconds and has a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).
| Make | Hyundai |
|---|---|
| Model | Coupe |
| Generation | RD |
| Trim | 2.0 SE |
| Years | 1996–2002 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | South Korea |
| Original price | About $15,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre 16v inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,975 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 139 bhp (104 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 182 Nm (134 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.4 s |
| Top speed | 125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,250 kg (2,756 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 111 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Hyundai Coupe RD worth?
A typical Hyundai Coupe RD is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $5,500 (about £1,100 – £4,100).
Its original price when new was about $15,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Hyundai Coupe RD rarity in CarSpot
The Hyundai Coupe RD is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Hyundai Coupe RD fun facts
- The car's suspension and handling characteristics were developed in conjunction with Porsche engineers.
- In North America and Australia, the model was sold as the Tiburon, which is the Spanish word for 'shark'.
- The RD generation's distinctive 'bio-design' styling was penned at Hyundai's California Design Studio.
