1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1752 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
