1981 Pontiac Grand Safari vs. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Sonata (206 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 220 kg more than 2011 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 Pontiac Grand Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari | 2011 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Pontiac | Hyundai |
| Model | Grand Safari | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2794 mm |
