1999 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1999 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1989 Pontiac Firebird 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 1989 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Hyundai Sonata | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonata | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
