2001 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Mazda 323 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP) has 83 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 463 kg more than 2001 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 323 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 157 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
