1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 769 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 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Sonata | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2029 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
