2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 168 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 Nissan Leopard. 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, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (241 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (226 Nm). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1408 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
