2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | S |
Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |