1996 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (94 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Sonata. (160 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |