1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (176 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 570 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Sonata | E |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2685 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |