1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (153 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | 230 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.3 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
