1983 Honda Ballade vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 28 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP) has 143 more horse power than 1983 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1983 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1575 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Honda Ballade. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Honda Ballade. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Honda Ballade | 2011 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ballade | R |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3216 mm |
