1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 325 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 front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2780 mm |
