2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 853 kg more than 1978 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, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 35 L |
