2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 786 kg more than 1988 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2005 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
