1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 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 (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (503 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 363 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1164 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 666 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 2210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3165 mm |
