2008 Honda Element vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 296 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Element. 2008 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
