2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 86 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2950 mm |
