1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (475 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 387 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 165 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (631 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 498 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 475 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
