1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
