1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 73 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 185 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 | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
