2009 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (174 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 26 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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 E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe. (183 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Santa Fe | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2701 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
