1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 Mercedes-Benz B (200 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 818 | B |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2699 mm |
