2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. Both 2004 Mazda 3 and 1998 Mercedes-Benz E are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 337 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (191 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
