2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 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 | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
