2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 8 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 435 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1190 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 105 L |
