2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Toyota Corona

To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Corona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Corona would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Corona. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Corona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 570 kg more than 1978 Toyota Corona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Toyota Corona 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 Toyota Corona. 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Corona. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Corona.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Hyundai Sonata 1978 Toyota Corona
Make Hyundai Toyota
Model Sonata Corona
Year Released 2005 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1975 cc 1966 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 131 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Height 1590 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 60 L