1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 45 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
Model | Sonata | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |