2006 Honda Element vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2006 Honda Element is newer by 30 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Element weights approximately 615 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 2006 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Element | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 230 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| 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 | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
