1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1046 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
