2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 141 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Hyundai Sonata (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2003 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Hyundai |
| Model | Golf | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
