2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 266 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 350 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
