2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2962 cc |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 14.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
