2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1983 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (47 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 568 kg more than 1983 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Toyota Starlet 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 1983 Toyota Starlet. 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 (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (65 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1983 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 40 L |
