2004 Honda Element vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Element (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 155 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 2004 Honda Element (218 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm). This means 2004 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 230 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
