2008 Hyundai Tucson vs. 2003 Hyundai Matrix
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Matrix would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Tucson (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. (104 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Tucson weights approximately 535 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Hyundai Tucson is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Tucson will offer significantly more control. 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 Tucson (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Tucson | 2003 Hyundai Matrix | |
| Make | Hyundai | Hyundai |
| Model | Tucson | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 72 L |
