2002 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 396 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 900 kg more than 2002 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 655 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | S |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 97 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3090 mm |