1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 9 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 960 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (441 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2990 mm |
