2003 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1054 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 323 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
