2007 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2007 Hyundai Sonata. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 295 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2007 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2007 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Sonata | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
