2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1972 Plymouth Valiant
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 228 kg more than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 1972 Plymouth Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 Plymouth Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1972 Plymouth Valiant | |
| Make | Hyundai | Plymouth |
| Model | Sonata | Valiant |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3678 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
