1999 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Hyundai Sonata (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 536 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1999 Hyundai Sonata (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Hyundai Sonata | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1306 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
