2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
