1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2830 mm |
