1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1989 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel 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 46 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1973 Nissan Laurel 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 1973 Nissan Laurel. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (169 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
