2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan Laurel 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 76 more horse power than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 516 kg more than 1979 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan Laurel 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 1979 Nissan Laurel. 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan Laurel. 2005 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1979 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Nissan Laurel 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 | 1979 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
Model | Sonata | Laurel |
Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2654 cc | 1768 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |