2007 Honda Element vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Honda Element is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2007 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2007 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Honda Element weights approximately 482 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2007 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Honda Element | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2352 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 78 L |
