1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2010 Hyundai Sonata. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2010 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 397 kg more than 2010 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Hyundai Sonata. 2010 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
| Model | S | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4798 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
