1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 232 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1974 Chevrolet Nova is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Nova | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2730 mm |
