1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 456 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| 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 | 66 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
