1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Jeep Liberty

To start off, 2012 Jeep Liberty is newer by 23 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Liberty is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Liberty (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Liberty should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.

Because 2012 Jeep Liberty 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 2012 Jeep Liberty. 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, 2012 Jeep Liberty (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Liberty will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Hyundai Sonata 2012 Jeep Liberty
Make Hyundai Jeep
Model Sonata Liberty
Year Released 1989 2012
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2972 cc 3700 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 143 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 228 Nm 318 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 4-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4493 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1836 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1803 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2695 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 74 L