1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1989 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Seven |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 34 L |
