1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP) has 228 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 740 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | CLS |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 4965 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 302 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |