1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 508 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 654 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
