2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,358 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 67 L |
