2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
