2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 172 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
