1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 657 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 S 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 S. 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 S (351 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | S |
Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 351 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3090 mm |