1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1180 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (186 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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