1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 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 41 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 320 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Renault |
| Model | Sonata | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
