2009 Honda Element vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 16 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 2009 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 333 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 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, 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 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 2009 Honda Element. 2009 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. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Element | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2353 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 | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
