2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata 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 26 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1373 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4550 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 |
