1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 172 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
