1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,330 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 1665 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | 600 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 6330 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 2770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 6250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3910 mm |
