2011 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 340 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
