In a recent article MSN Autos recently compared a 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T (with options) to a 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 in an effort to describe the difference in value between a $25,000 car and a $50,000 car.
Author Sam Foley wanted to know whether the Benz, which costs literally twice as much as the Sonata, was also twice the car. So he studied the dimensions, powertrain, safety, luxury, reliability, and style of both… and concluded that, either one of the vehicles is wildly overpriced or the other is one is a heck of a bargain. From Butler Hyundai’s perspective, the results are eye-opening!
See for yourself:
Dimensions: The Benz is wider but only by a few inches. And the Hyundai actually boasts more interior room up front.
Powertrain: Despite the fact that the Mercedes sports a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the Sonata’s turbocharged 2-liter inline 4-cylinder delivers more horsepower. The Hyundai also gets better gas mileage, and runs on less expensive fuel.
Safety: Both vehicles rank the same in crash tests, earning 4-5 stars. But Hyundai garnered those stars after undergoing the more stringent 2011 tests, which Mercedes has yet to submit to.
Luxury: The E350 is plush, but unless you want to pay another $1,620, you won’t get real leather. You will in the Sonata, though. In fact, the Sonata Limited is as already as tricked out as it can get, minus the $2,100 navigation system. But if you want to pimp your Benz, you’ll be shelling out *at least* another $25,000.
Reliability: JD Power and Associates gave both vehicles a 4-star rating. But the Hyundai’s warranties are better: 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper compared to the E-Class’s 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper. Mercedes customers can, however, fork out another 3-grand for extended coverage.
Style: Both cars could be considered beautiful but, of course, that determination is in the eye of the beholder. The Mercedes features wood trim; The Hyundai sports a little more plastic. But, all other things considered, Mr. Foley wants to know, is that detail worth the $25,000 difference in price?
The answer is up to you… only you know what matters to you when you’re buying a car. If it’s the manufacturer’s name, status, and long history, you might lean towards the Mercedes. But, if you’re like most of us who want the best value for our dollar, the Hyundai is the better buy.
To read the entire article: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspxcpdocumentid=1184001&page=2
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