2003 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe has manual transmission. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Santa Fe | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
