2009 Hyundai Tucson vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,976 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 99 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Tucson.
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, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 2009 Hyundai Tucson has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Tucson will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Tucson | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Tucson | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1976 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 65 L |
