1998 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 425 more horse power than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 785 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 698 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Hyundai Sonata | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
