1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 313 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | S | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
