2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 2 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 542 kg more than 2005 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 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, 2005 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 S (700 Nm) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
