1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1989 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Carina 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 44 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Carina. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Carina.
Because 1974 Toyota Carina 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 1974 Toyota Carina. 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 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Carina. (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Carina |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
