1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Cherry (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
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 (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
