2002 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
Model | Sonata | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2512 mm |