2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 748 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (241 Nm) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Renault |
| Model | Sonata | 4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 58 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1408 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 38 L |
