2009 Honda Element vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Honda Element. (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 480 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 300 (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
