2009 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1980 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (382 HP) has 308 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 410 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Honda Ballade. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1980 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | CL | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2330 mm |
