AutoNation Inc (AN)vsSonic Automotive Inc (SAH)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$184.00
-2.19%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.43B
SAH
Sonic Automotive Inc
$61.71
-1.74%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $2.01B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AutoNation Inc generates 77% more annual revenue ($27.45B vs $15.47B). AN leads profitability with a 2.8% profit margin vs 1.4%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.46. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).
AN
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
SAH
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for AN.
Margin of Safety
-21.6%
Fair Value
$50.03
Current Price
$61.71
$11.68 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 30 in profit
Earnings expanding 138.5% YoY
Reasonable price relative to book value
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.5%
Revenue declined 0.6%
Elevated debt levels
1.4% margin — thin
Operating margin of 3.4%
Earnings declined 12.3%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Return on Equity. PEG of 0.46 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : SAH
The strongest argument for SAH centers on P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.62 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Revenue Growth. Debt-to-equity of 5.02 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : SAH
The primary concerns for SAH are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Debt-to-equity of 4.45 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 1.4% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
SAH carries more volatility with a beta of 0.93 — expect wider price swings.
SAH is growing revenue faster at 7.6% — sustainability is the question.
AN generates stronger free cash flow (134M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (66/100 vs 61/100). Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
AutoNation Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
AutoNation, Inc. is an automobile retailer in the United States. The company is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Sonic Automotive Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
Sonic Automotive, Inc. is an automobile retailer in the United States. The company is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
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