1994 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Mazda Cosmo

To start off, 1994 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Hyundai Sonata (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 316 kg more than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Mazda Cosmo 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 1979 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Hyundai Sonata (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1994 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. 1994 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1979 Mazda Cosmo has manual transmission. 1979 Mazda Cosmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1994 Hyundai Sonata 1979 Mazda Cosmo
Make Hyundai Mazda
Model Sonata Cosmo
Year Released 1994 1979
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2972 cc 1768 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 143 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 231 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 91.2 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76 mm 88 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1406 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 65 L