1981 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,657 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 685 kg more than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Because 1981 Ford Cortina 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 1981 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cortina | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Cortina | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 2657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
