2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 453 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
