2003 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (474 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 377 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 718 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 323, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 485 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 474 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1878 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
