2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 661 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
