2009 Honda Element vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 466 kg more than 2009 Honda Element. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2009 Honda Element has manual transmission. 2009 Honda Element will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 350 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
