2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1989 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Carina 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 138 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Carina. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 566 kg more than 1989 Toyota Carina. 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 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Carina. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1989 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Carina |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2530 mm |
