1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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 RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1307 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |