1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 19 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 860 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 407 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | CLS |
Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |