1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP) has 143 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | 450 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 90 L |
