1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 620 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (270 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
