2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1985 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,358 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Leopard. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 14 kg more than 1985 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Nissan Leopard 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 1985 Nissan Leopard. 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 (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Leopard. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1985 Nissan Leopard has manual transmission. 1985 Nissan Leopard 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 | 1985 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Sonata | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 147 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2630 mm |
