2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 591 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. 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) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
