1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 42 L |
