2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | C | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
