1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SL | 3 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
