1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 332 kg more than 2001 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 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. 2001 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
Model | SL | Sonata |
Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1428 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |