2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 462 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1520 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 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 813 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 605 HP |
Torque | 187 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |