1989 Honda Accord vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 23 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 134 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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Accord | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1198 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4486 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 53 L |
