2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 528 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Renault |
| Model | Sonata | 18 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1498 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 53 L |
