2008 Honda Civic vs. 1989 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Civic.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Honda Civic (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2008 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2008 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1989 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Civic | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2204 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
