Hyundai Repair: Sonata - Query on engine noise, water pump bearing, australian delivery

Question
HT, My 2 litre DOHC 16 valve Sonata was made in late 98.
Although Australian delivery it should be the same engine that was in the smaller US model like the Elantra.
I would like to know if these engines are generally fairly noisy - I mean a sort of tractor/truck sound - not like a smooth quiet engine found in a Toyota for example. Runs okay, but I wonder if I should be looking for a problem like the water pump bearing or a belt. The sound is just normal engine noise (to me) but louder than I would have expected in a car just done 100,000 km. and well looked after.
Thanks HT. John in Oz.

Answer
The Mitsubishi-type four cylinders, which is what I believe you have in your car, aren't the quietest enigings.  But your description leads me to believe that the noise is quite loud.  

If the noise occurs while the vehicle is not moving and changes with engine speed, I might expect an exhaust leak or loose timing belt.

If the noise occurs worse at higher speeds, I might expect a worn wheel bearing.