2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,358 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 50 L |
