2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 360 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |