1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 682 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 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | E |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 349 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |