2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 521 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
