1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 630 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (460 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
