1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 19 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | SLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 130 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2440 mm |