2004 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 8 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 795 kg more than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2004 Hyundai Elantra, 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 (400 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Elantra | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elantra | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
