1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (98 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 52 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
