1979 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,408 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (206 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1979 Opel Ascona. (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 498 kg more than 1979 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Opel Ascona 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 1979 Opel Ascona. 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. 2012 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1979 Opel Ascona has manual transmission. 1979 Opel Ascona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Ascona | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Opel | Hyundai |
| Model | Ascona | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2408 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2794 mm |
