2003 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 265 kg more than 2001 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, 2003 Hyundai Sonata (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Sonata | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
