1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 210 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2910 mm |
