2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | S | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
