2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (311 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 14.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 72 L |
