2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
