1980 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Buick LeSabre. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick LeSabre.
Because 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Buick LeSabre (279 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (242 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1980 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Buick LeSabre | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Buick | Hyundai |
| Model | LeSabre | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 242 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 |
