2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 835 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
