2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,343 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (235 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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 (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3343 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
