2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 558 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1698 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |