1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (57 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 228 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 1981 Toyota Corolla. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
Model | Sonata | Corolla |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 57 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 106 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1032 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |