1978 Honda Civic vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 31 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic.
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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2730 mm |
