1982 Nissan Laurel vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 576 kg more than 1982 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 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 1982 Nissan Laurel. 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Laurel. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Nissan Laurel.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Nissan Laurel 2008 Hyundai Sonata
Make Nissan Hyundai
Model Laurel Sonata
Year Released 1982 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1952 cc 3342 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 102 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 162 Nm 304 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1070 kg 1646 kg
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2740 mm