1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SL | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
