1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre.
Because 1978 Buick LeSabre 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 1978 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick LeSabre | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Buick | Hyundai |
Model | LeSabre | Sonata |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4821 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1834 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2794 mm |