1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 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), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP) has 419 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 915 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 591 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | S |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 493 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1985 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |