1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 660 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 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
