1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 682 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2760 mm |
