2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 406 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
