2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 680 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 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 1997 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1710 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 | 8.2 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
