2003 Honda Element vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Honda Element is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2003 Honda Element. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Element weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Honda Element, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Element. (216 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Element | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2352 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
