1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,404 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 152 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
Model | 240 | 3 |
Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2404 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 138 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 24.6 seconds | 9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |