2004 Mazda MX vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX (160 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX, 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, 2004 Mazda MX (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2004 Mazda MX has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX | 230 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2800 mm |
