2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
