1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 1989 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Silvia 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 1981 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Silvia.
Because 1981 Nissan Silvia 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 1981 Nissan Silvia. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Silvia. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Nissan Silvia | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Silvia |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
