1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 611 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
