2001 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 6 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1428 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
