2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
