2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 856 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (145 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 1981 Volkswagen Santana has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Santana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
