1994 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP) has 168 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 770 kg more than 1994 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SL |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 242 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
