2004 Honda Element vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (153 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 23 kg more than 2004 Honda Element. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Element. (220 Nm). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
