1980 Honda Ballade vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 4,261 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP) has 208 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1101 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Honda Ballade | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ballade | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 4261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 275 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3090 mm |
