1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 150 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. 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, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Sonata | RX-4 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |