2001 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 504 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 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2001 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2657 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
