1981 Honda Ballade vs. 1998 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1998 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (140 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade.
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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (181 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade. 1998 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 1998 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Ballade | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2710 mm |
