1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 420 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | CLK | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
