2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 301 kg more than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | C | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2147 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
