1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace

To start off, 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Hyundai Sonata 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 54 more horse power than 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace. (89 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace.

Because 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace 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 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace. 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace. (226 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace has manual transmission. 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace 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 1999 Toyota Hi-Ace
Make Hyundai Toyota
Model Sonata Hi-Ace
Year Released 1989 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2972 cc 2446 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 143 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 3500 RPM
Torque 228 Nm 226 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 91.1 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76 mm 92 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1960 mm