2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1607 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
