1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (470 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1010 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 586 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
