1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | 250 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
