1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Frontier. 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 Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
Model | Sonata | Frontier |
Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2972 cc | 3954 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1880 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3200 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |