2008 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1978 Toyota Corona
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 30 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Matrix (102 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Corona. (68 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Matrix should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Corona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 276 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, 2008 Hyundai Matrix, 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, 2008 Hyundai Matrix (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Corona. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Corona. 1978 Toyota Corona has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Matrix has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Toyota Corona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Matrix | 1978 Toyota Corona | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix | Corona |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2530 mm |
