2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 221 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | 230 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.1 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
