1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 300 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Sonata | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |