2005 Honda Insight vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2005 Honda Insight is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Honda Insight. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2005 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 520 kg more than 2005 Honda Insight. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Honda Insight, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Honda Insight. (123 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Honda Insight.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda Insight | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Insight | 230 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
