1997 Honda Prelude vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1997 Honda Prelude. (131 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Prelude.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 442 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda Prelude. (178 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda Prelude. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda Prelude has manual transmission. 1997 Honda Prelude will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Prelude | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prelude | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 3165 mm |
