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 108 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 512 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 2012 Mazda 3
Make Mercedes-Benz Mazda
Model S 3
Year Released 2002 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 275 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 1383 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4506 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1755 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2639 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 60 L


 

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