2001 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 300 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 1988 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 1988 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (167 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 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 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |
