2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Volvo V40
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 V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 441 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | V40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
