2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 596 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2005 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
