1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 674 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2585 mm |
