2001 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP) has 154 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 323 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
