1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G8 is newer by 12 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (361 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 92 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.
Because 2008 Pontiac G8 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 2008 Pontiac G8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (522 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Pontiac |
| Model | Sonata | G8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2920 mm |
