2004 Honda Element vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Honda Element. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Honda Element would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 61 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Element. (218 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
