1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1988 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 157 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mazda RX-7 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Hyundai Sonata | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
