2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 390 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (301 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | C | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
