1998 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 826 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-3 | CL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
