2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1973 Toyota Century
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Toyota Century would be higher. At 2,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Toyota Century. (127 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1973 Toyota Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Toyota Century weights approximately 581 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1973 Toyota Century 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 1973 Toyota Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1973 Toyota Century (236 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 Toyota Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1973 Toyota Century has manual transmission. 1973 Toyota Century will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1973 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 2981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2870 mm |
