2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (131 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 320 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (191 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2004 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2004 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
