2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,402 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2402 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
