1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
