2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
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 ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,720 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 857 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 2186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 86 L |
