1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 436 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 240 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 726 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 510 HP |
Torque | 104 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |