2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 228 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 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1797 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
