1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2002 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 215 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Laurel | 2002 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
Model | Laurel | Sonata |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 184 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |