1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2013 Mazda SPEED3
To start off, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 is newer by 28 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, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 (259 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda SPEED3 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Mazda SPEED3, 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, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda SPEED3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2013 Mazda SPEED3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | 250 | SPEED3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 259 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1370 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2640 mm |
