2012 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 471 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | E | 3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1711 kg | 1240 kg |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
