1998 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 252 kg more than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Hyundai Sonata | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
