1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 333 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | 450 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
