1987 Honda Civic vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1987 Honda Civic. (130 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1987 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 780 kg more than 1987 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Honda Civic. (143 Nm @ 5700 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Honda Civic. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1987 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1987 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Honda Civic | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2740 mm |
