1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 967 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | E | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
