1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 555 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Hyundai | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Sonata | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4269 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
