1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 83 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1988 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Hyundai Sonata | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2639 mm |
