1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1976 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Sonata (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 130 kg more than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Hyundai Sonata (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. 1976 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 1976 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
