2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 745 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2148 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
