2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 356 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
