1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. Both 1997 Mazda MX-3 and 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 309 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-3 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
