1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 395 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
