2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,657 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 24 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 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (255 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2657 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
