2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (160 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 482 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 2003 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |
