1986 Honda Prelude vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1986 Honda Prelude is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1986 Honda Prelude. (107 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1986 Honda Prelude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Honda Prelude, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Prelude. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Prelude.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Prelude | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prelude | 230 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1829 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
