1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 76 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
| Model | C | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
