1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 180 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | C | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
