2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 222 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (228 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | C | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
