1989 Honda Accord vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Accord 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 134 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 512 kg more than 1989 Honda Accord. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Accord | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
