2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 342 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
