1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 160 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
