2001 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 667 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (186 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | C | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4506 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
