1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 436 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 975 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 721 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 510 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 2045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |