AutoNation Inc (AN)vsSonic Automotive Inc (SAH)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$193.55
+2.05%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.58B
SAH
Sonic Automotive Inc
$65.31
+1.59%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $2.19B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AutoNation Inc generates 82% more annual revenue ($27.63B vs $15.15B). SAH leads profitability with a 78.0% profit margin vs 2.4%. SAH appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.31. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 58/100 (C).
AN
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
SAH
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-37.4%
Fair Value
$151.23
Current Price
$193.55
$42.32 premium
Margin of Safety
-161.6%
Fair Value
$23.26
Current Price
$65.31
$42.05 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 27 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Growing faster than its price suggests
Keeps 78 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
1.3% earnings growth
2.4% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.0%
Weak financial health signals
Operating margin of 3.3%
Weak financial health signals
Revenue declined 60.0%
Earnings declined 18.5%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. PEG of 0.68 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : SAH
The strongest argument for SAH centers on PEG Ratio, Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 78.0% and operating margin at 3.3%. PEG of 0.31 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are EPS Growth, Profit Margin, Operating Margin. Thin 2.4% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : SAH
The primary concerns for SAH are Operating Margin, Piotroski F-Score, Revenue Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AN profiles as a value stock while SAH is a declining play — different risk/reward profiles.
SAH carries more volatility with a beta of 0.91 — expect wider price swings.
AN is growing revenue faster at -3.9% — sustainability is the question.
AN generates stronger free cash flow (64M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (58/100 vs 53/100). Both earn "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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