"Dan K" <danielgkNOSPAM@visi.com> wrote in message
> I think the new Sonata's have a timing chain, but the rule of thumb for a
> Hyundai is timing belt and interference engine. And I agree with
> you...unless there is a really good excuse for an interference engine I
> don't see any reason to buy one. As far as I can tell, the Hyundai
> interference engines are not vastly superior to other non- interference
> engines that are available. So, one has to wonder why Hyundai has so many
> interference designs. It is clearly not what the people want, although
> most probably don't realize they don't want it when they buy the car, only
> later when it breaks or when the bill comes for the recommended
> maintenance. Comments?

I think it is more of a PITA issue than a cost issue. I'd never buy a car
with a belt because it is just one more thing that has to be done. Based on
the 60k miles, it works out to about .0065 per mile added cost. Every
situation is different. If I bought a new car every three or four years or
drove only 6000 miles a year, it would not be a big deal. I drive a car for
5 years and put 150,000 miles and them make it my secondary car for another
5 or more years.

As for why the build such engines, I'd have to guess cost. I have to wonder
what the up front cost is for a chain driven as opposed to the belt that
will add $800 in the life of the car. Mechanical parts do wear out, but to
knowing use a cheaper part up front for much more cost later is not a good
idea. Hyundai though, has been the low price leader and a few bucks here
and there can make or lose the sale.