2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 42 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 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 | 1318 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
