1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Panoz Esperante

To start off, 2008 Panoz Esperante is newer by 19 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Panoz Esperante (420 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.

Because 2008 Panoz Esperante 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 2008 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2008 Panoz Esperante (570 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2008 Panoz Esperante has manual transmission. 2008 Panoz Esperante 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 2008 Panoz Esperante
Make Hyundai Panoz
Model Sonata Esperante
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2972 cc 4589 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 143 HP 420 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 228 Nm 570 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3500 RPM
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 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 59 L