1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 626 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2431 mm |
