1989 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Hyundai Sonata.
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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Hyundai Sonata. 1989 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | T5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
