2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. 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 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. 2003 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
Model | 3 | Sonata |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |