1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 33 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | 230.4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
