2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Hyundai ix35
To start off, 2012 Hyundai ix35 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai ix35. (133 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai ix35. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 448 kg more than 2012 Hyundai ix35. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai ix35, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai ix35. (164 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai ix35. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Hyundai ix35 has manual transmission. 2012 Hyundai ix35 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Hyundai ix35 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
| Model | S | ix35 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1591 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11:01 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2640 mm |
