2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1290 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
