2006 Honda Element vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Honda Element is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2006 Honda Element. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Element weights approximately 300 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2006 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Honda Element. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Element | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
