1998 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1998 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 485 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 1978 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Toyota Starlet | |
Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
Model | Sonata | Starlet |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1166 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 55 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 84 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 775 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1530 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |