2010 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 108 kg more than 2012 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4798 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2728 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
