1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 20 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP) has 214 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 750 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 288 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
