2001 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 13 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Sonata | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
