2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 362 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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 (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1058 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
