1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 390 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SL | 3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
