1988 Mazda 323 vs. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1988 Mazda 323 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,305 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 430 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
