2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 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 (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 507 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
