1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 603 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
