1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 547 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 237 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 838 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 661 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |