2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 587 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (530 Nm) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |
