2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.5 L/100km | 3.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
