1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 11 kg more than 1996 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1271 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
