1996 Peugeot 406 vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1996 Peugeot 406. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 406 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 406. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 406. (130 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 406. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1996 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 1996 Peugeot 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 406 | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Peugeot | Hyundai |
| Model | 406 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1618 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
