2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 422 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Hyundai | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Sonata | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 5735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2960 mm |
