2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (167 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 87 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
