2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 141 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 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 2006 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 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
