2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | E | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
