2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
