2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 373 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2010 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | 3 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4798 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
