1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 134 kg more than 2010 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
| Model | S | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4798 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 67 L |
