2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 590 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, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
