1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Honda Insight
To start off, 2011 Honda Insight is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2011 Honda Insight. (98 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 658 kg more than 2011 Honda Insight. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Honda Insight, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Insight. (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Insight.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | S | Insight |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
