1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1980 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 143 kg more than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. (151 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 1980 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
