2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 138 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
