2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 5 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | A | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
