1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 85 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.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 A (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
