2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 785 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 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, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 269 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 2205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |