1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 906 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
