2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1997 Volvo V40
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo V40 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 128 more horse power than 1997 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 406 kg more than 1997 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1997 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | V40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
