2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 396 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Saab |
| Model | Sonata | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2530 mm |
