2004 Honda Element vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 (153 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 267 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 (220 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2004 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 75 L |
