2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,657 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 660 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2657 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 112 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
