1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 193 kg more than 1978 Renault 18.
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, 1978 Renault 18 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Renault |
| Model | Sonata | 18 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
