2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 775 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
