1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1972 Toyota Publica
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 585 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica 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 1972 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1972 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Publica |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2170 mm |
