2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1990 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (235 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1990 Pontiac Firebird 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 1990 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1990 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonata | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
