2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 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 58 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 600 kg more than 2009 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, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
