1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (706 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 603 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 706 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
