Sonata IV (EF) vs Galant VIII (EA): which is better?
Hyundai Sonata IV (EF) (1998–2012) vs Mitsubishi Galant VIII (EA) (1996–2003): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Sonata IV (EF)
Mitsubishi Galant VIII (EA)Specifications
| Hyundai Sonata IV (EF) | Mitsubishi Galant VIII (EA) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1998–2012 | 1996–2003 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 131 hp | 133 hp |
| Torque, up to | — | 176 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 747 mm | 4 630 mm |
| Width | 1 820 mm | 1 740 mm |
| Height | 1 420 mm | 1 420 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 700 mm | 2 635 mm |
| Fuel tank | 65 L | 62 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Hyundai Sonata IV (EF)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- No data
Mitsubishi Galant VIII (EA)
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mitsubishi 4G6x/4G18: timing belt and balance shaft belt failure
- Age: the last cars were built in 2003, condition is everything
Engine (Mitsubishi 4G6x/4G18): timing belt and balance shaft belt snapping; worn engine mounts.
Which one to choose
- Sonata IV (EF) — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank.
- Galant VIII (EA) — if you care more about: power.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Sonata IV (EF) or Galant VIII (EA)?
Sonata IV (EF): up to 131 hp, Galant VIII (EA): up to 133 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sonata IV (EF) — about 16 475 ₸, Galant VIII (EA) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.
Other comparisons
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