1978 Honda Civic vs. 2005 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 798 kg more than 1978 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (241 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Honda Civic 2005 Hyundai Sonata
Make Honda Hyundai
Model Civic Sonata
Year Released 1978 2005
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1169 cc 2655 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 53 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 79 Nm 241 Nm
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 678 kg 1476 kg
Vehicle Length 3570 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2210 mm 2610 mm