1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | ML |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
