2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 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 (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 332 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
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 (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1058 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
