1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (144 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 350 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 2004 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SL | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
