1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 17 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP) has 228 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 900 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 rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | CL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |
