1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 499 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
