1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 20 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2009 Nissan 350Z 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 2009 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2009 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
