1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 638 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 69 L |
