1990 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1990 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 346 kg more than 1990 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda RX-7. (270 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | RX-7 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
