2004 Honda Element vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 493 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 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Element. (218 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
