1980 Renault 12 vs. 2010 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2010 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 685 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (310 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12. 2010 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Renault 12 2010 Hyundai Sonata
Make Renault Hyundai
Model 12 Sonata
Year Released 1980 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1288 cc 3300 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 53 HP 249 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 94 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 900 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4798 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1831 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2728 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 56 L 67 L