1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | 250 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2525 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 72.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2800 mm |
