2000 Mazda 323 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2000 Mazda 323 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz E (94 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 183 kg more than 2000 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 323 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | E |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2760 mm |
