2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.3 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
