2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 55 more horse power than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 678 kg more than 1979 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 1979 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Toyota Corolla. 1979 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1979 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1498 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
