1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 22 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP) has 308 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1530 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | GL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 382 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 2515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 100 L |
