2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 220 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2196 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 58 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 28.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
