2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 322 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 479 kg more than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 445 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (255 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2657 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
