1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 244 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
Model | S | Sonata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3342 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1646 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |