2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP) has 183 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 701 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
