2008 Honda Element vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 426 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Element. (218 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
