2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 121 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
