2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 430 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
