2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 113 kg more than 2003 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (230 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1373 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
