2003 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Sonata | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 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 | 1425 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
