1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1384 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | GL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 100 L |
