2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,657 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 471 kg more than 2008 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, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2657 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
