1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1980 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki Jimny 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 37 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 455 kg more than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Suzuki Jimny will offer significantly more control. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1980 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Hyundai | Suzuki |
| Model | Sonata | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2040 mm |
