1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 60 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Hyundai |
| Model | Golf | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2740 mm |
