1983 Honda Ballade vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1983 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1983 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1390 kg more than 1983 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Honda Ballade. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1983 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1983 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Honda Ballade | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ballade | R |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3220 mm |
