1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (115 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 93 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
